The last thing the Carolina Panthers’ receiver room and DJ Chark needed was another injury. Well, neither avoided it—as the former Pro Bowl wideout sustained a hamstring injury a week ago.
But, at least both sides seem positive about the progress that’s been made since.
On Tuesday, Chark—per Joe Person of The Athletic—said he’s feeling optimistic about his status for Week 1.
DJ Chark says hamstring feels good and he’s optimistic about Week 1.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) August 29, 2023
And just moments earlier, head coach Frank Reich spoke not only about him, but also about the returns of Terrace Marshall Jr. (back) and Laviska Shenault Jr. (concussion) to the practice field this afternoon.
“Terrace was out there today, as you guys know, and got some work out there today,” he said. “He didn’t do everything, but did enough. It was a good first step. Obviously, DJ’s workin’ inside, so we’ll see how he continues to progress. I know these guys are doin’ everything they can.”
Chark stayed inside the team’s practice bubble during the session.
Reich then pivoted to Shenault Jr.
“I know he’s progressing in the steps,” he said. “My apologies for not knowing which step he’s at.
“But he’s trending positively, yes.”
Hopefully for Reich, the Panthers and three wideouts, that trends all the way into Atlanta on Sept. 10.